Wick River

A bird watchers haven, the River Wick is tidal for the first part of this walk. The route heads out along a constructed path by the river to a low viewpoint before returning the same way and then briefly exploring the centre of the town.

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

Begin from the car park in the centre of Wick, beside the river and behind the Poundstretcher store. From the far end of the car park continue along the surfaced path alongside the river heading away from the town. Soon a pedestrian bridge is reached, do not cross this but continue on the right hand side of the river. This section of the river is a tidal estuary and provides a habitat for many wading birds. A wooden walkway provides a lookout with information boards.

Stage 2

Keep following the River Wick as it heads inland, the path is now a little distance from the water, but is surrounded by reeds and wetland, the perfect home for many small birds such as the sedge warbler and reed bunting. There are also many rare species of plants and the area attracts numerous dragon and damsel flies. Continue on passing a bend in the river with a section of wooden fence, and then pass, but do not cross, another footbridge. Soon climb a set of steps where there is a good view back over the river and stone seats.

Stage 3

From here retrace your steps back along the path almost to the start, but turn right to cross the long footbridge before the route reaches the car park. The footbridge leads to a park and play area; turn left to walk along the far bank, then keep left again at a fork to stay down by the river. The route passes an elaborate fountain before emerging on the main road bridge.

Stage 4

Go straight across the road (crossing with care) to take River Street opposite, passing to the left of Mackay's Hotel. The area beyond was once part of the river, but was reclaimed as part of Thomas Telford's extensive scheme to improve the town and harbour. Keep left at a fork, passing between the medical centre and the swimming pool.

Stage 5

Turn left at the mini roundabout to recross the river. On the far side ignore the lane down into the car park but turn left when you reach the t-junction. Keep straight on as this becomes the pedestrianised High Street. One of the finest buildings is the Alexander Bain (now a Wetherspoons) - named after the inventor of the electric clock and the electric printing telegraph; Bain was born in nearby Watten but worked in one of the buildings on the left.

Stage 6

At the busy main road turn left, passing some fine buildings including the town hall. Just before the bridge over the river turn right (sign Wick Riverside) to return to the car park at the start.